McCray and Morris Ink Professional Contracts
Aug. 18, 2010
LAWRENCE, Kan. –
Recently graduated Kansas women’s basketball players Danielle McCray and Sade Morris each signed contracts in the last few days to begin their professional careers. McCray signed with a team from Israel, while Morris has a contract with a team in Finland.
“This is an exciting time for me,” said McCray, who was drafted in the first round of the 2010 WNBA Draft, but was unable to play this season due to injury. “I cannot wait to get over to Israel and officially begin my professional career. More than anything I am just excited to get back out on the court.”
McCray, who ranks fourth on the KU all-time scoring chart, will be suiting up for Rishon Lezion of the Israeli Women’s League, Division 1. The 2009 Big 12 Preseason Player of the Year will head over to her new team Oct. 1 and is looking forward to playing against international competition.
“This is a great opportunity for me to expand my game,” said McCray, who competed internationally as a part of the 2009 USA Basketball’s World University Games Team. “I have heard great things about this league and I think it will prepare me for playing in the WNBA.”
Morris will leave the United States for Finland on Sept. 1, where she will suit up for Huima in the Finnish Basketball League, Division 1. The Norman, Okla., native will play for coach Nurmi Mervi in her first season of professional basketball.
“I am so thankful for this opportunity,” said Morris, who finished her KU career ranked 14th on the Jayhawk all-time scoring chart. “I am excited to be able to continue playing the game I love and I think this team will be a great fit for me.”
Like McCray, Morris is looking forward to gaining valuable experience against some of the top women’s basketball players in the world and also traveling Europe.
“I know getting adapted to playing the European style of basketball will be an adjustment for me,” said Morris. “I am looking forward to developing as a basketball player, but also as a person. I cannot wait to get over there and get out and do some exploring. I am anxious try to all the different foods and just see a new way of life.”
